May 12, 2003 - Derbyshire Building Society, one of the UK's top ten building societies, has deployed Nokia IP network security appliances, running Check Point Software Technologies' (NASDAQ: CHKP) market-leading VPN-1®-FireWall-1® Internet security software, to help manage and secure e-mail access at all its high-street branches, and to protect electronic links with its business partners.
The Derbyshire has invested in a range of new technology initiatives with the aim of developing the business and guaranteeing long-term stability. This includes the funding of an IT security team with members drawn from across the company's many divisions to seamlessly integrate new security initiatives.
The Derbyshire has chosen the secure gateway approach for both internal access and business partner connectivity using the Nokia solution. There were a variety of reasons why Nokia was chosen to protect The Derbyshire's new e-business network.
"The fully packaged Nokia appliances removed any security issues around our current operating system and they allowed us to make more effective use of our own resources with no need to build our own security solutions," says Margaret Goring, Operations Manager, The Derbyshire. "An additional benefit of choosing the Nokia appliances is that they are all pre-equipped with VPN-1/FireWall-1 Internet security software from Nokia technology partner, Check Point Software."
"Crucially, we needed to work with a company that understands all the network security threats and reduces the risks. The need for cost-effectiveness and the use of the best products was of paramount importance, too," concludes Goring.
In the past, Internet access for employees comprised of just a limited number of dial-up PCs across the organisation's sites; however with the Nokia solution in place, The Derbyshire can now provide secure Internet access to all its employees, including those across the 53-strong branch network.
Another functionality enabled by Nokia, is the direct link-up between The Derbyshire's systems and those of its business partners via leased line. All communications are managed through the firewall at the main site.
In addition, the Nokia solution enables remote access for the organisation's valuers, intermediary account managers, board members and IT support workers.
"The infrastructure that has been put in place was intended to allow us to use the Internet in whatever way we felt was appropriate. With the systems now up and running, it will only be necessary to apply the existing security processes and policies to any new project that is being implemented," continued Goring.
"The security demands of the financial services industry are well known, so for The Derbyshire to build its new e-business strategy around our products, demonstrates Nokia has the security solutions the industry needs," says Ernie Jones, Vice President of Sales, Europe Middle East Africa, Nokia Internet Communications Europe.
About the Derbyshire Building Society
Last year, assets at the Derbyshire grew by 5.7% to more than £3.6 billion, and post-tax profits increased to £11.8 million. The society has 53 branches and provides a range of financial services to a wide customer base.
About Nokia Internet Communications
Nokia Internet Communications, headquartered in Mountain View, California, provides world-class Network Security, Virtual Private Network and Internet Traffic and Content Management solutions that ensure the security and reliability of corporate enterprise and managed service provider networks. Nokia is committed to enhancing the end user experience by bringing a new level of security and reliability to the network, enabling an Internet transaction that is personal and trusted-each and every time.
Nokia Internet security and virtual private network appliances span the spectrum of price/performance points, and secure the widest range of network environments-from the smallest branch office to the largest Internet data center. The expansive product line, backed by world-class global support and services, provides customers the ability to deploy multiple solutions from a single product to secure all elements of a distributed enterprise. For more information, please visit www.nokia.com and click on Secure Network Solutions.
About Nokia
Nokia is the leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet, Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is one of the most broadly held companies in the world, with listings on six major exchanges.
For more information (Media and Industry Analysts only please):
Nokia Internet Communications:
Americas
Amy Grenier, Interactive Public Relations for Nokia Internet Communications
Tel. +1 415 975 3354
amy@ipri.com
EMEA
Claire Backhurst
Tel. +44 7788 145460
claire.backhurst@nokia.com
APAC
Bonnie Datta
Tel. +6597389743
bonnie.datta@nokia.com
www.nokia.com
The Derbyshire Building Society
Jonathan Cross
Tel : +44 133 284 4497
Jonathan.Cross@thederbyshire.co.uk